Date:21/06/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/06/21/stories/2007062156970100.htm

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Impasse over power connection to apartment complexes may end

G.V. Prasada Sarma

VISAKHAPATNAM: In a bid to resolve the stalemate over denying power connection to apartment complexes without occupancy certificate, a few buildings are likely to be recommended for power connection.

A committee formed by Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) to go into the vexatious issue has inspected 19 buildings. The committee consists of, among others, a structural engineer, Fire Department and GVMC officials and representatives of the builders’ association and the Institute of Architects.

For nearly a year a now, the EPDCL’s fiat making occupancy certificate mandatory to sanction power connection has put around 120 buildings in literal darkness.

Ten to twelve buildings, without major violation, are said to be in a condition to get power, say sources.

If the process to grant them power connection being initiated goes off smoothly, authorities hope to replicate it for other buildings which qualify.

Such a big number of buildings being occupied by prospective residents is also seen as a source of good revenue to the GVMC.

Additional deposit

It is proposed to collect an additional, returnable security deposit from such buildings before recommending them for power connection. Authorities cite collection of Rs.100 a sq.m. in Vijayawada as an example.

However, the quantum of additional deposit to be collected in GVMC has not been decided upon.

The main areas of concern for the committee are the height of the building, violations with regard to construction of additional floors and parking space norms, projection of balconies and tot-lot. The Fire Department also following the issue of GO 154 issued notices to residential buildings below 18 m and commercial buildings below 15 m.

Owners of such buildings will be counselled and asked to install fire safety measures in six months while allowing a temporary power connection. Among the measures suggested are construction of an additional staircase and setoffs to allow passage for fire-tenders or yard hydrants (pillars) to help fire-fighting.